Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed that he will “miss” Marcus Rashford following the Manchester United forward’s return to his parent club after a fruitful loan spell in Spain.
Rashford is gearing up for a new Premier League season with United after Barcelona decided not to sign him on a permanent basis.
Earlier reports from ESPN in June indicated that the Catalan club was still considering a return for Rashford, either for a reduced fee or another loan, but recent signings of Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi seem to have closed the door on the England international’s return.
“You never know what happens with players on loan — our situation isn’t easy,” Flick commented after a friendly match against Birmingham. “I have really enjoyed working with him [Rashford]. He is a remarkable player and an even better person. We will miss him, but that’s part of life.”
“This is something we have to accept. In the end, Anthony Gordon joins us, and from our first conversation, I could tell he is incredibly motivated with Barça, and I’m delighted to have him on our team.”
As it stands, Rashford is expected to return to Carrington in early August to begin preparations for the new Premier League season, starting with a match against newly promoted Hull City on August 22.
His future remains uncertain, with sources indicating that Manchester United would seek around €40 million ($46 million) for a permanent transfer, while preferring not to let him join a rival club in England.
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Earlier this week, Rashford shared a farewell message on social media, expressing his gratitude: “I am very thankful to everyone at the club for making my time here so positive and memorable. I’ve enjoyed every moment and will cherish the many special memories I’ve made.”
“I wish the club and its supporters the best of luck and every success for the upcoming season. Visca el Barca.”
Report incorporates information from ESPN’s Sam Marsden.